Showcase your story

Applying to college involves several important steps:

• filling out applications
• sending test scores and transcripts
• writing essays

The college essay can seem challenging, but it's a great chance to show who you are beyond grades and test scores. A well-crafted essay can set you apart from other applicants by showcasing your personality, achievements, and potential. Plus, it gives colleges a glimpse of your writing skills, which are important for success in college.

Ready to get started? Here are our top 10 tips to help you write a compelling college essay. Bonus: these tips also work great for scholarship essays!

1. Understand the prompt

Before you start writing, carefully read and understand the essay prompt. Pay attention to what the question is asking and ensure you address all parts of the question.  

2. Brainstorm ideas

Take some time to brainstorm ideas. Think about your experiences, achievements, and goals. Consider how these relate to the prompt and which stories or examples best illustrate your points.

3. Create an outline

Organize your thoughts by creating an outline. This will help you structure your essay and ensure a logical flow of ideas. An outline typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

4. Write a strong introduction

The introduction is your chance to grab the reader’s attention. Start with a hook, such as a quote, anecdote, or interesting fact, to draw them in. Clearly state the main point or thesis of your essay.

5. Be yourself

Your essay should reflect who you are. Be genuine and honest in your writing. Show your personality and passions instead of trying to impress the reader with what you think they want to hear.

6. Show, don’t tell

Use your experiences to show the reader who you are. Instead of saying you’re a hard worker, describe a situation where you demonstrated hard work and its impact. Instead of saying you’re a leader, share a story where you led a team and the outcome of the situation.

7. Be concise

Stick to the topic and adhere to the word limit. Avoid unnecessary words or overly complex sentences. Be clear and concise in your writing.  

8. Revise and edit

Don’t submit your first draft. Take the time to revise and edit your essay. Check for grammar and spelling errors, clarity, and overall coherence. Ask a teacher, mentor, or friend to review your essay and provide feedback.

9. Stay positive

Keep a positive tone throughout your essay. Even when discussing challenges or failures, focus on what you learned and how you grew from the experience.

10. Maintain perspective

Remember, a college application essay is important, but admissions officers will look at you as a whole student. They also consider your academic record, extracurriculars, test scores, and more. The essay is just one part of your application.  

Final thoughts: your story matters

Writing a college essay can be tough, but your stories matter. They help admissions officers understand who you are and what you bring to their school. With some planning and attention to detail, you can create a memorable and impactful essay. Good luck!